#best skiing spots 2025

[uksyamalaysia]

Best Locations for Skiing in January 2025

As winter blankets mountain towns across America, ski enthusiasts are seeking destinations that offer more than just pristine slopes. Here are the standout ski cities for 2025, where world-class skiing meets vibrant culture and unforgettable experiences. Here are some of the top locations for Skiing in January:

Park City, Utah

Leading our list is Park City, a former silver mining town turned winter sports paradise. Home to both Park City Mountain Resort and Deer Valley Resort, it offers over 7,300 acres of skiable terrain. What sets Park City apart is its accessibility—just 35 minutes from Salt Lake City International Airport—and its historic Main Street, lined with Victorian-era buildings housing farm-to-table restaurants, art galleries, and boutiques. The Sundance Film Festival in January adds cultural flair, while the High West Distillery, the world's only ski-in gastro-distillery, exemplifies the town's unique après-ski scene.

Aspen, Colorado

Aspen continues to define luxury mountain living while maintaining its authentic charm. Four distinct ski areas—Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Buttermilk, and Aspen Highlands—cater to all skill levels. Beyond skiing, Aspen's downtown buzzes with high-end boutiques, award-winning restaurants, and the renowned Wheeler Opera House. The Winter X Games and Wintersköl festival showcase the city's commitment to winter culture, while new sustainable initiatives have strengthened its appeal to environmentally conscious travelers.

Catskills Mountains, New York

The Catskills are experiencing a remarkable renaissance, with this All-Inclusive Ski Resort leading the charge. Just 2.5 hours from New York City, Catskills Mountains offers exceptional skiing with state-of-the-art snow-making capabilities. The town has evolved beyond its traditional reputation, now featuring craft breweries, farm-to-table restaurants, and boutique Hotels and Resorts options. The revitalized downtown area blends rustic charm with modern amenities, while maintaining the authentic character that makes the Catskills special. New investments in infrastructure and dining options have transformed Villa Roma into a legitimate competitor to America's Ski destinations.

Bozeman, Montana

Bridger Bowl and nearby Big Sky Resort make Bozeman a powder seeker's dream. The city's young, energetic vibe stems from Montana State University's presence, creating a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and cultural sophistication. Downtown Bozeman's historic district features excellent dining options, craft breweries, and local shops. The Museum of the Rockies provides fascinating diversions on rest days, while hot springs in the surrounding area offer natural relaxation.

Stowe, Vermont

Stowe embodies New England skiing at its finest. The town's European-inspired atmosphere and proximity to Stowe Mountain Resort make it a premier East Coast destination. The Stowe Recreation Path, scenic even in winter, connects downtown to the mountain area. The Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum chronicles the region's winter sports heritage, while the town's covered bridges and church steeples maintain its postcard-perfect appearance. Local cheese shops, craft cideries, and the famous Ben & Jerry's factory nearby add to its appeal.

Steamboat Springs, Colorado

Known for its champagne powder and Western heritage, Steamboat Springs offers an authentic Colorado experience. The city's natural hot springs provide perfect post-skiing relaxation, while downtown's Lincoln Avenue maintains its cowboy town charm with modern amenities. Winter Carnival celebrations feature unique events like skijoring down Main Street. The town's commitment to fostering young winter sports talent has earned it the nickname "Ski Town USA."

South Lake Tahoe, California

Straddling California and Nevada, South Lake Tahoe provides access to multiple world-class resorts while offering year-round entertainment. Heavenly Mountain Resort's gondola rises directly from town, providing spectacular lake views. The city's casino sector adds nightlife options, while the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains offer stunning beauty. Recent improvements to the Heavenly Village area have created a more pedestrian-friendly atmosphere with excellent dining and shopping options.

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These cities represent the best of American ski culture in 2025, each offering unique combinations of exceptional skiing, cultural attractions, and community charm. Whether you're seeking deep powder, luxury amenities, or family-friendly activities, these destinations prove that the perfect winter getaway extends far beyond the slopes.Now get out there and show those slopes who's boss – just maybe wait until after your morning coffee kicks in.

[serpent-of-hope]

*Propaganda, fun facts, and owl pics under the cut

BARN OWL:

Last year's winner and our current reigning champion, the Barn Owl is back to defend their title! What makes the Barn Owl so popular? Their haunting face? Their screeching cries? Their vast range - nesting on every continent save Antarctica, vastly increasing their chance of being your local owl? Only you can say! And only you can secure the Barn Owl's victory for another year!

PYGMY OWL:

Meet the pygmy, an owl species so small that they are better called owlets! Don't underestimate these hunters, they're locked in a standing war with the songbirds - the owls swallowing the songbirds up and the songbirds retaliating by mobbing the owls in large flocks.

SNOWY OWL:

Known by many names: the polar owl, white owl, and Arctic owl among them, this is the largest North American owl by weight. Most snowy owls are barred with dark brown markings (like the one pictured here). If you see a pure white owl, it's a sure sign you've found a mature male.

EURASIAN EAGLE OWL:

Swooping in to riotous demand, behold the Eurasian Eagle Owl!

To all those mortally offended by the accidental exclusion of the Eurasian Eagle Owl last year, please accept this offering, of a link to Episode 100 of the very excellent podcast Beyond Blathers, bringing you 48 delightful minutes of Eurasian Eagle Owl facts and stories:

SAW-WHET OWL:

The most common owl in North American forests, the saw-whet owl calls through the evening skies with a high-pitched call like a saw being sharpened on a whet stone - hence the name.

SPECTACLED OWL:

The smart-looking Spectacled Owl makes its home in mature rainforest, though they have been known to venture into the desert for food. You'll know these owls by sight, thanks to their distinctive mask, and by sound, making a vibrating call like someone shaking a thin sheet of metal.

SCREECH OWL:

As the name suggests, you'll hear these owls before you see them, and you might think you're being haunted if you do! You might also be able to track them by their owl pellets - regurgitated packets of undigestable bones, fur, and feathers - littered around their nesting sites.

BARRED OWL:

You'll know Barred Owls when you hear them, calling "Who cooks for you? Who? Who? Who cooks for you?" through the dark of night. Compared to other owls, Barred Owls don't migrate. Fossils of this bird dating back 11,000 years have been found in Ontario

GREAT HORNED OWL:

Also called a tiger owl, a winged tiger, or a tiger of the air, these birds are fierce predators, capable of besting other raptors - including the barred owl. They are so strong, that it takes 28lbs of force to open their claws.

BURROWING OWL:

As the name suggests, these owls prefer nesting in the abandoned burrows of other underground-dwelling animals to roosting in the trees! though their nests may be pre-owned, these owls have been known to decorate with bottle caps and bits of foil or paper. By the same grounded preference, you're more likely to spot one running after its prey than flying, making good use of their long legs.

LONG-EARED OWL:

With a permanent expression of someone who just caught got doing something they're not supposed to, these owls are indeed sneaks, opting to claim nests built by others rather than constructing their own. But for all their sneaky ways, Long Eared Owls are among the friendliest, roosting in groups of up to 150 members.

BLACKISTON'S FISH OWL:

Standing at 70cm tall, the Blakiston's Fish Owl reigns in Northeast Asia as the largest living owl on earth. True to their name, they eat mostly fish and have no trouble diving from the skies in pursuit of a trout, pike, salmon.

[lanf1an]

SEASONS lando norris x fewtrell sister pt.3 - january 6 2025

pt.1 pt.2 pt.4 pt.5 pt.6 pt.7 pt.8 pt.9 pt.10 wordcount: 1835

The sun had started to dip behind the mountains, and after a full day of skiing and snowboarding, the group stumbled onto the terrace après-ski bar. Lando and Magui had spent the day skiing together, while the rest of the group tackled the slopes together, most of the parents and Magui had headed back to the lodge, tired from travels.

At the bar, the mood was lively. Skiers and boarders still in their gear gathered around tables, their cheeks flushed from the cold and the day’s exertion. The air was thick with the sound of laughter, clinking glasses, and classic après-ski tunes.

Max leaned over the table, a mischievous grin on his face. “Alright, new game. We spot the fans trying to make a move on Norris, and we try to casually block them.”

Cisca rolled her eyes but was already scanning the room. “I saw a girl at the bar earlier with a McLaren beanie. She’s been eyeing him for the last five minutes.”

Flo laughed, nudging you. “Your turn to play defense. You’re standing closest to him.”

You glanced over your shoulder at Lando, who was at the bar. You shook your head, smiling. “I think he’s oblivious.”

“Doesn’t matter,” Max said, clearly enjoying himself. “That’s the fun part. Let’s see who does it best.” - “Alright, up on the shoulders Flo'' Dylan suggested, she clapped her hands excitedly in response.

As they plotted their interference, Norris’s dad leaned in from the next table, his voice low. “Alright, kids, let’s not make a scene. We don’t want to attract too much attention to Lando.”

“Too late for that,” Max muttered under his breath, nodding towards the bar.

The group turned just in time to see Lando coming towards them, two enormous champagne bottles in hand, sparklers shooting from the tops like miniature fireworks. Heads turned instantly, the bar erupting in cheers and applause.

“Subtle,” You said, deadpan, as Lando made his way to their table, grinning like he’d just won a Grand Prix.

“What?” he said, feigning innocence as he placed the bottles on the table with a flourish. “It’s après-ski! Live a little.”

You shook your head, unable to hide a smirk. “Of course. Mr. Center of Attention.” You could say fame didn't change him, he was always like this and fame had stopped him from being himself.

Lando leaned closer, a playful glint in his eye. “You love it.”

''You wish'' You huffed a laugh, still shaking your head. You gave him a warning look but you already knew what was coming.

“Maybe,” he said, shrugging, giving one of the bottles to Max and smashing the other on the floor, foam spraying out, trying to get some in everyone's mouths.

Max shook his head, laughing. “You’re impossible.”

“Impossible or iconic?” Lando retorted to his signature gran prix podium celebration, raising his glass in a toast. The music became louder and everyone started dancing. You stayed dancing close to him anyway, feeling protective even when he didn't seem to care and the game already being over. — Lando leaned against the bar, still holding one of the oversized champagne bottles, as Dylan and you stood beside him. Dylan had taught you some pro tricks today and had been ribbing you all day about your snowboarding skills —or according to him, lack thereof, which wasn't fair, compared to a pro—and you were finally getting him back.

“I don’t know, Dylan,” your said, swirling the remnants of your champagne. “The way you wiped out on that last run? I’m not sure you’re qualified to teach me anything.”

Dylan clutched his chest dramatically. “Excuse me, that wipeout was tactical. I was demonstrating what not to do.”

“Right,” you said, rolling your eyes. ''Bit dissapointing for a pro, don't you think?''

Lando watched them, a grin tugging at his lips. “You two bicker like an old married couple.”

Dylan smirked, putting his arm around your shoulder. “You should’ve joined us, Lando. Could’ve shown her how the pros snowboard.” he continued the bickering.

You laughed. “Please. He’d just show off the whole time, thinking he's actually better than me, than you even” you accidentally complimented Dylan.

“Correct,” Lando admitted with a shrug. “But at least it would’ve been impressive.” He set the champagne bottle down at the bar and crossed his arms, his gaze flicking between them. “Besides, I wouldn’t let her spend all day falling over. Unlike some people.”

“I wasn’t falling all day,” you protested, lightly punching his arm.

“No, just half the day,” Dylan said, earning himself a glare.

Lando grinned, clearly enjoying the banter. “Seriously, though. Tomorrow we'll go all together. I’ll teach you how to actually stay upright.”

You raised an eyebrow. “You’re assuming I’d trust you with that responsibility.”

“Why wouldn’t you?” he asked, feigning offense.

“Because you’d probably push me over for fun.”

“Ah yeah, true” he said, smirking.

Dylan shook his head, laughing. “You two are ridiculous.” He glanced between them. “Actually, kind of makes sense.”

“What does that mean?” you asked, narrowing your eyes.

He shrugged, a sly grin on his face. “Nothing. Just saying, you two act more like an old married couple for way longer than we do.”

Lando barked out a laugh, but you could feel your cheeks flush, even though Dylan didn't seem to care one bit, the chill attitude and easy-going confidence you fell in love with and admired so much. “Please,” she said, rolling her eyes. “Don’t make it weird.”

“Too late,” Dylan grinned, knowing you weren't as careless and relaxed as him.

You turned back to Lando, hands in the air. “You’re not helping, you know.”

“What?” he asked, all innocence, though his smile said otherwise. “I didn’t say anything.”

“Exactly,” you muttered, though you couldn’t hide a smile as he poured you another glass of champagne as you walked off, back towards the others.

''You know what I'm going to say right?'' Lando turned to Dylan, suddenly serious. Dylan laughed ''I'm surprised you hadn't yet, Max told me she has not one, but two protective brothers, twins nonetheless'' Dylan tried to joke. Lando didn't laugh.

''I'm not going to hurt her''.

— january 3 2017

The night was getting quiet after having drinks, muffled laughter of the others still lingering at the table. She sat slumped on the couch in the corner, her legs stretched out, ski boots still tightly strapped. The wine she’d been nursing had her feeling warm and a little bold, but exhaustion weighed heavy on her limbs.

Lando appeared in the doorway, his cheeks flushed from the cold and a little from all the beer they’d had earlier. His hair was a tousled mess, sticking out in all directions from where he’d rubbed at it with his gloved hands earlier that day.

“You alright there?” he asked, his voice soft, tinged with amusement as he stepped into the room.

She groaned, leaning her head back against the couch. “No. I’m stuck. These stupid boots won’t come off, and I’m too tired to fight with them.”

Lando chuckled and walked over, crouching down in front of her. “Let me help. Lift your leg.”

She raised an eyebrow at him, smirking. “What are you, my knight in shining armor now?”

“Obviously,” he rolled, grabbing her foot before she could protest. His fingers worked at the straps, the tips brushing against her calf as he loosened the bindings. Her breath hitched involuntarily, but she quickly covered it with a laugh.

“Ticklish?” Lando teased, glancing up at her with a knowing grin.

“No,” she lied, suddenly hyper-aware of how close he was.

He didn’t push further, focusing instead on freeing her foot from the boot. When he managed to tug it off, she sighed dramatically in relief, wriggling her toes. “Freedom,” she declared.

“One more to go,” Lando said, reaching for her other foot. His hands wrapped firmly around her ankle, steadying it as he worked. This time, the touch lingered—not inappropriately, but enough to send a tingle up her spine. She looked down at him, at the way his brow furrowed in concentration.

When the second boot finally came off, Lando sat back on his heels, letting out an exaggerated sigh of triumph. “And that, my lady, is how you—”

“Shut up,” she interrupted, laughing, and lightly kicking his shoulder with her freed foot. But her laughter faded when their eyes met.

“Lan…” she started, her voice low, but she didn’t know what she wanted to say.

“You’ve got…” he murmured, leaning in slightly and brushing his thumb just below her lip, where a speck of wine had stained her skin. The contact made her pulse race.

Before she could second-guess it, her hand reached for his cheek, and suddenly, his lips were on hers. The kiss was tentative at first, like both of them were testing the waters, but it quickly deepened. His hands cupped her face, fingers tangling in her hair as he pulled her closer. She responded in kind, her heart pounding in her chest like a drum.

It was familiar and foreign at the same time. But just as quickly as it had started, it stopped.

Lando pulled back, his breathing uneven, his gaze searching hers. “I… I shouldn’t have done that.”

“It’s okay,” she said, though her voice trembled. She wasn’t sure if she meant it.

“No, I mean…” He ran a hand through his hair, looking troubled. “We’re drunk. And we… we can’t.”

She nodded hesitantly. “Yeah. Yeah, you’re right.”

They didn’t talk about it again after that night, both silently agreeing to bury it under layers of banter and shared history.

—

Back at the lodge you were tugging fruitlessly at the straps of your ski boots, weak in the hands after the amount of champagne this afternoon. “These things are impossible.” you huffed,

Lando appeared out of nowhere, grinning. “Need a hand, princess?”

You rolled your eyes heavily. “Don’t ever call me that again. And yes, apparently, I do.”

He crouched down in front of you. ''Lift your leg'' his hands worked expertly at the straps, fingers brushing against her leg. You suddenly remembered a moment you had forgotten a few years ago, your breath hitching at the thought, you quickly looked away, focusing on the snow outside the window.

“There,” Lando said, pulling the boot off swiftly. “I’m getting good at this.”

“Not exactly a competitive skill” you said, narrowing you eyes, ''Don't underestimate the importance of dexterity'' he said, showing off his hands, wiggling his fingers.

"Thanks"

“No problem,” he replied, standing up and offering you a hand.

You took his hand, letting him pull you to your feet. “Come on,” he said, nodding toward the others who were already heading inside. “Let’s get warm.

tl: @ash88-yep @lewishamiltonismybf @harrysdimple05

[bellanothadidloa]

As I initially stated in my success story, I don't plan on being very active here because I've spent too much time on social media. However, I want to answer some common questions to help you guys achieve your dreams before winter or to provide some motivation.

Do you have new method you recommend

Yes, I found this on a blogger's page. I've been experimenting for fun with different techniques. One method involves using theta waves and counting from 100 to 300 until you feel drowsy, then affirming for the void.

Alternatively, you can use the five senses method that shifters often use, which I find works the best!

And, lucid dreaming is an incredible experience. To enhance your dreams, try spraying magnesium oil on your feet. This will lead to some of the most vivid dreams of your life.

Also, research neuroplasticity—it's a fact that with enough repetition, affirmations can rewire your brain. Neuroplasticity is the brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections throughout life.

Are you into shifting and other explorations

Yes, at first, I manifested shifting abilities just for fun, but I didn't have anywhere I particularly wanted to go because I was so content with my life—and I still am. I love my life! However, anytime you're curious about something, bored, or want to see how a different decision would turn out, you can just shift. It's amazing to feel this limitless, and I wish this experience for everyone!

I've also tried astral projection, but it doesn't do much for me since I can just shift anywhere I want or even travel there if I want to see something in person. It's all quite fascinating!

What is your life like now

I live in Monaco, but I'm considering international schools like Le Rosey or Phillip Phillips Exeter in Massachusetts. I've manifested that when I graduate in 2025, I'll get into an American Ivy League school.

I have an amazing social life, travel often, and attend prestigious events I could only dream of (I follow the billionaires calendar) I experience pretty privilege, and I have a good dating life and don't relate to the "I hate men" sentiment. I mean, the ones on social media can be gross, but they don't meet or see me in real life.which is insane. I get good grades easily and am generally loved and admired by everyone. It's so weird going from being ignored to being loved by everyone. My home life is great; my parents are the best people, and my siblings and I get along well. My home is the hangout spot for my friends which is fun, and I still cater to myself. I listen to subliminals and do journaling, which genuinely makes me happy. I'm open about my spirituality on my social media page, hehe! I've also become a Pilates enthusiast, even though I don't need to work out. I enjoy participating in rich hobbies like Pilates, golf, horseback riding, tennis, skiing, and, of course, traveling!

All in all, my life is amazing, and every day I'm kind of scared I'll wake up from this spell. It's crazy that this is just my permanent life!

Comment more questions I have a layover which nothing to do and I’ll add more to the post as I see them :)

[gallifreyinstituteforlearning]

What is the current population of Gallifreyans living on Earth as of 2025? And is England really Gallifreyan central as suggested in the stories over the galaxy? And if so why and does the Doctor have anything to do with it?

Are there Gallifreyans on Earth?

🌍 Population Count: No Idea.

When Gallifreyans end up on Earth and decide to stay, they're usually there for a reason. Some might just like the idea of fourth retirement skiing in the Alps or enjoying New York's vibe. But not many Gallifreyans see Earth the way the Doctor does—which is to say, as the most important, most fascinating, most adventure-prone planet in the universe.

If a Gallifreyan is on Earth, it's usually not because they're drawn to it. It's because they don't want to be found. It's the perfect hiding spot for a few reasons:

✅ It's a primitive planet—which means it's legally protected from most direct alien interference under Galactic Law. Anyone trying to find the Gallifreyan will have to file a ridiculous amount of paperwork with the Shadow Proclamation, and no one wants to do that.

✅ They blend in extremely well. Gallifreyans look close enough to humans that they don't need to alter their biology, use a Chameleon Arch, or invent some tragic backstory.

So, are there Gallifreyans living on Earth? Almost definitely, but we'll never know how many.

👽Is the UK Really Gallifreyan Central?

1️⃣ Space-Time Hotspots – London and Cardiff are ridiculously active when it comes to weird space-time phenomena. The rift in Cardiff is basically a free energy source for any stranded or tired TARDIS. London, meanwhile, has enough alien invasions to be a nightmare for insurance companies. As a rule, Time Lords and TARDISes tend to get a little more drawn to places and times where there's more activity.

2️⃣ Treacherous Landings – Gallifreyan navigation systems are complex, and one wrong digit in the coordinates could send a TARDIS straight into the Pacific Ocean. Time Lords who end up on Earth often find themselves in the same few locations—not necessarily because they meant to, but because it's safer than materialising in the middle of nowhere.

3️⃣ The Doctor's Fault (Obviously) – Let's be real. Earth is a tiny planet, populated by a lesser species, and objectively not that interesting.

Most Gallifreyans haven't looked into it that much and have a very warped perception of Earth because the only information they get is from the Doctor's antics. If you were a Gallifreyan casually curious about Earth, you'd assume the entire planet consisted of:

London, which is constantly being invaded.

Cardiff, which apparently contains the only TARDIS fuel station worth stopping at.

Quarries, which seem to make up 90% of Earth's natural terrain.

A warehouse. Something's always going on in that warehouse.

Motorways that may or may not lead directly into hellscapes.

A rotating selection of remote villages with a tendency for cult activity.

Some other rural bits around the edge.

4️⃣ It's Trendy (Probably) – If the Doctor has a reputation for going here, then other young Gallifreyans might find it a bit trendy to visit as well. Some of them probably do it ironically. Some genuinely want to see what all the fuss is about. Some are definitely stranded and making the best of it.

🏫 So ...

We can be quietly confident that there are Gallifreyans on Earth right now, but we have no clue how many. The UK is Gallifreyan central—not intentionally, but it just keeps happening.

Is it the Doctor's fault? Absolutely.

Related:

💬|🪐🌍How is Gallifreyan geography different to Earth?: The landscape of Gallifrey.

💬|🧑💻How long until the Earth might reach the technological age of Gallifrey?: Handy guide for humans wishing to progress.

💬|👥🧑‍⚕️The Doctor: Hero, Rebel, or Nuisance?: Asking just what Gallifrey thinks of the Doctor.

Hope that helped! 😃

Any orange text is educated guesswork or theoretical. More content ... →📫Got a question? | 📚Complete list of Q+A and factoids →📢Announcements |🩻Biology |🗨️Language |🕰️Throwbacks |🤓Facts → Features:⭐Guest Posts | 🍜Chomp Chomp with Myishu →🫀Gallifreyan Anatomy and Physiology Guide (pending) →⚕️Gallifreyan Emergency Medicine Guides →📝Source list (WIP) →📜Masterpost If you're finding your happy place in this part of the internet, feel free to buy a coffee to help keep our exhausted human conscious. She works full-time in medicine and is so very tired 😴

[thewintersoldierdisaster]

a/n: happy january! for @wyattjohnston ‘s 2025 winter fic exchange i got @tkwrites and this was my first exposure to sean durzi! i hope you enjoy the fic and the vibes are suitably cozy 🥰

word count: 5.5k

tw: friends to lovers, kissing, no smut

summary: lizzie arnold decides to surprise her best friend for christmas, but she could never have imagined how the holiday season would shake out

Elizabeth Arnold is having the travel day from hell.

A flight from Phoenix to Salt Lake City should only be an hour and forty five minutes. But when you add in mechanical failure, overbooking, and icy weather in the destination state, suddenly the quick trip turns into a logistical nightmare and she’s being rebooked on a flight that has a stopover in Los Angeles, adding nearly four hours to her travel itinerary.

Four hours on top of the three she’s already been wasting sitting in the Phoenix airport due to delays.

Honestly, it would’ve been faster to just drive to Salt Lake City at this point.

She pulls up Google Maps on her phone and taps in Sean’s address, just to see. Oh, more than ten hours of driving from the Phoenix airport. Actually, maybe she will just take the flight delays. At least it means she can just sit back and go where the airlines tell her, instead of having to focus on the roads.

She can’t even text Sean to tell him about all the airport bingo spaces she’s hitting - delayed flight, toddler throwing a tantrum in the middle of the terminal, fourteen freaking dollar bag of almonds, woman completely overdressed for the flight - since her trip to Utah is a surprise.

With her two week Christmas break, she’d made the executive decision to work remote for the couple of days before Christmas and fly out to Utah to surprise her best friend since he’s been in a mood for months as he rehabs a shoulder injury.

Lizzie figures that she might as well spend the holidays with Sean since her own family is scattered to the four corners of the US and she doesn’t feel like deciding which parent she’ll see. When she’d told her mom she wouldn’t be coming to Boston for Christmas, her mom’s immediate reaction had been to blame her dad for monopolizing her time. Not that explaining she wasn’t seeing her dad in Dallas for Christmas either had stopped her mom’s rant. Nearly ten years divorced and both her parents still hated each other.

Her dad had taken it slightly better, assuming she was going to spend the holidays with her sister Jane in Seattle. Nope - Jane was going to her fiancé’s family’s place in the Adirondacks. Lizzie hadn’t been invited. Which was fine. No, really it’s fine. Lizzie doesn’t want to spend the holidays with her bossy older sister anyway.

It might’ve been nice to be wanted though. Not that Lizzie will admit that.

Her younger sister, Cath, is somewhere in Los Angeles trying to make it as an actress. She’s not entirely successful since she hits up Lizzie for money every few months, but Lizzie did spot her in an episode of FBI: Most Wanted, as a bystander running from an exploded building, so she supposes that’s a start.

Needless to say, spending any sort of holiday time with her family is a non-starter.

And something about the life she’s living in Phoenix isn’t making her happy any more, so she’s more than happy to pack up and spend some time in Utah with Sean. He can’t really do anything physical that would set his shoulder rehab back, but maybe she can convince him to come along to the slopes anyway and sit in front of a fire while she skis.

Her flight is announced and she hefts her carry-on to her shoulder and treks down a few gates to stand in line and scan her boarding pass. It’s a packed flight and of course she’s wedged into a middle seat, fighting for elbow room. Closing her eyes and taking a few deep breaths - she hates meditating and has never been good at it - Lizzie clamps her AirPod Maxes over her ears and tunes out everything around her until the plane lands at LAX.

Where she’s greeted by another flight delay because of bad weather in Salt Lake City.

Honestly, fuck Gary Bettman and Alex Meruelo. Life had been much easier when the Coyotes and Sean were in her neighborhood and not a nightmare travel day away.

When she finally lands in Utah, Lizzie nearly sprints off the plane and books it for the Enterprise kiosk so she can pick up her rental car. They upsell her on a Chevy Tahoe that’s probably way too big for her to drive, but has excellent capabilities for snow driving, per Andy at the desk, so Lizzie figures better safe than sorry. As a Maryland native, she’s no stranger to driving in snow, but it’s also been a good eight years since she had to do it regularly.

Last year, when she visited her mom and stepdad in Boston, Mitch had insisted on driving everywhere, even though Lizzie was twenty-five and more than capable of navigating her mother’s Hyundai through the streets.

When she emerges from the airport, the Tahoe’s keys jangling in her gloved hand, Lizzie gasps at the sudden hit of cold air. It’s crisp and clean and it hurts her face in the best possible way.

Phoenix is great, but there’s nothing like the cold weather to get her in the mood for Christmas.

She wrangles her two (overstuffed) suitcases and carry-on into the Tahoe and plugs Sean’s address into the built-in GPS. He lives just fifteen minutes from the airport, but since it’s still actively snowing, Lizzie is barely going thirty miles an hour and it takes her thirty minutes to get to his house.

“Oh thank god,” she mutters, spotting his car in the driveway. It occurred to her about ten minutes into the drive that he might not actually be home. It’s nearly nine thirty at night, so odds were good that he’d be home but wouldn’t that just have been the cherry on top of her day? Having to sit in Sean’s driveway in her rented car because he was out of the house.

As she pulls her car in behind his, Lizzie sees the curtain in the front window shift and a smile stretches across her face, excitement bubbling in her stomach. She hasn’t seen Sean since the Utah home opener in October - there was no way she was missing that piece of both NHL history and Sean Durzi personal history - and she’s missed him a lot.

Lizzie leaves the luggage behind and makes her way carefully through the snow covering the walkway to the front door. Sean already has it open and he’s backlit in the doorway, but Lizzie can see the confused expression on his face.

“Surprise!” She squeals, giving him excited jazz hands. “I’m imposing myself upon you and staying through the New Year.”

It takes a minute to click, Lizzie’s pronouncement, but when it does, Sean shakes his head and laughs, stepping back so she can come inside. “You’re so lucky I decided not to go out tonight,” he grins, opening his arms for a hug. Lizzie steps into his embrace, puffer coat and all, squeezing him around the middle. Sean’s chin comes down to rest on top of her head and something that was missing clicks into place.

“I legit just had that same thought as I drove up,” Lizzie laughs, shedding her coat, hat, and gloves. She kicks her boots off and lets them fall in a pile next to Sean’s sneakers at the front door. “But then I figured that you’re a giant loser so where else would you be except at home.”

She smirks at him and Sean pushes at her shoulder, deadpanning a laugh. “Ha,” he snarks. “Why are you getting unbundled? I’m not getting your shit from the car. I’m injured, in case you forgot.”

“Okay, bullshit,” Lizzie shoots back, even as she pulls her boots back on. “You’re in the actively rehabbing stage and are more than capable of lifting my suitcases.”

Sean hands Lizzie her hat. “Are they under forty-five pounds? Because I have limitations,” he says the last word like it’s a four-letter one, nose wrinkling up in disgust.

Lizzie’s mouth snaps shut on her response. Because no, her bags aren’t under forty-five pounds and in fact both of them have bright orange tags with the bold black HEAVY lettering. In her defense, winter clothes take up a lot more space than summer clothes. Boots, sweaters, jeans - all heavier than shorts and tank tops.

“That’s what I thought,” Sean laughs. To his credit, he shoves his feet into his sneakers and follows Lizzie out to the car, whistling when he sees the Tahoe. “Did you not have to tell the rental people how you nearly had your license revoked with all the points you racked up?”

He hoists Lizzie’s carry-on out of the trunk and over his good shoulder, leaving her to handle the two roller suitcases. She can’t blame him, not when he’s just following his rehab plan.

“They don’t ask about past infractions,” she informs him huffily, dragging her bags through the snow. “How aren’t you cold?”

Sean’s shoulder lifts in a shrug under his sweatshirt. “I’m used to it I guess? It’s not even that cold right now,” he stomps the snow off his sneakers before heading back inside and Lizzie does the same.

Once everything is inside and the door is shut behind them, Lizzie exhales roughly, finally feeling like she can relax. Her shoulders slump and she feels her spine curl as she slouches, one hip popped to the side. Her mother is somewhere in Boston, cringing because she can feel Lizzie’s terrible posture from a country away.

“Well, I’m not,” she shivers, the residual cold making its way through her body. Sean rolls his eyes at her and reaches out to roughly rub his hands up and down her arms, making her laugh more than it warms her up.

Through laughter, Lizzie manages to say, “that’s not working! I’m still freezing.”

“Yeah, but you’re laughing and not pouting about it,” Sean points out with a grin. He gives Lizzie’s arms one more up and down rub before letting his hands drop to his sides. “I hope you packed warm because it’s literally only going to get colder.”

“Whatever I forgot,” Lizzie smirks, “I’ll steal from your closet, Seanie.” She wanders off into the kitchen and makes herself comfortable, finding a glass and pouring herself some water. Sean trails after her and takes a seat at the kitchen island, propping his chin on his palm. He stares at her and she wrinkles her nose at him.

“What? Do I have something on my face?” Lizzie swipes her hand over her cheeks, feeling nothing.

Sean shakes his head. “Nah, sorry. Just trying to wrap my head around the fact that you’re here,” he shrugs, the corner of his mouth ticking up slightly. “It’ll be nice to have someone else ratting around the house with me.”

“I don’t rattle,” Lizzie leans her forearms on the counter, “I’m young and vibrant and not depressed, like someone else I know.”

“I’m not depressed,” Sean counters quickly. Too quickly. His mouth tries for a convincing smile, but ends up in a grimace. Lizzie winces.

“That’s not convincing at all,” she deadpans. “We’re gonna work on that while I’m here.”

Sean raises an eyebrow and Lizzie lets her face morph into a bright smile, forcing it bigger and more exaggerated until he cracks, laughing at her with a genuine smile on his face. “C’mon,” he slips off the stool and makes a ‘come here’ gesture with his hand, “let’s get you some dinner. I bet you haven’t eaten in a minute.”

Lizzie’s stomach rumbles before she can answer and Sean smirks at the embarrassed, sheepish look on her face. “Knew it!” He crows, pulling open the fridge and rummaging around. Lizzie keeps up a string of chatter, filling him in on the things he’s missed back in Phoenix, until Sean deposits a Scooby Doo sandwich in front of her, icy glass of water dripping with condensation.

“I can’t eat all of this,” Lizzie says, picking up the hulking sandwich as she protests. A tomato slips out and lands on the plate with a wet plop. Sean snags it and pops it in his mouth, chewing quietly.

“I’ll finish what you don’t eat,” he rolls his eyes at her. Lizzie should’ve known that since Sean’s been her leftovers garbage disposal since the day they met.

She manages half of the sandwich before a yawn cracks at her jaw and the adrenaline of her trip wears off. Lizzie tucks one leg up underneath her and watches Sean polish off the sandwich. She’s always been a little bit in awe of how he can eat at any time of day and keep going. Her late night dinner is sitting in her stomach and making her sleepy.

“Guest room’s clean,” Sean ushers her upstairs with one hand between her shoulder blades. “Get some sleep and we can discuss your itinerary tomorrow.”

“I don’t have an itinerary,” Lizzie protests half heartedly, stumbling over her feet so Sean has to catch her around the waist and steady her. His hand is warm through the thin fabric of her shirt and she shivers a little. His fingers flex on her waist.

“Bullshit,” Sean laughs, pushing open the guest bedroom door for her. “You definitely have an itinerary. And lucky you, once I’m done with PT for the day, I usually have no plans.”

Lizzie ignores the bitterness lacing his tone - she’ll have to cheer that right out of him. The injury had taken a toll on Sean’s attitude, knowing that he was missing the first season they’d ever play in Utah. Besides that, Sean’s never been one to sit still.

“I will neither confirm nor deny the existence of an itinerary,” Lizzie replies, faux-haughtily. “Besides, I’m visiting you so you really should be the one to entertain me.”

Sean leans against the doorframe, looking slouchy and comfortable. “Liz, I didn’t know you were coming. If you want plans, you gotta give me some notice,” he kicks a foot in her direction, lazy.

“Consider this your notice,” Lizzie kicks back, making brief contact with his socked foot. “I want to be entertained.”

“We’ll see,” Sean pushes her shoulder gently. “Get some rest, Liz. I’ll see you in the morning.”

Sleep comes quickly and morning comes even quicker. Lizzie tumbles out of Sean’s guest bed in a cloud of bed head and jaw cracking yawns to find him bright-eyed and bushy-tailed at the kitchen counter. He’s fully dressed in jeans and a sweater and Lizzie’s heart does a funny little twist while she watches him make eggs at the stove.

He’s humming to himself and Lizzie doesn’t recognize the song, but she wraps her arms around her stomach and listens quietly, the warm feeling of home washing over her. It’s peaceful until Sean turns and spots her, yelping and dropping the egg covered spatula to the floor, clearly startled.

Lizzie shrieks in an automatic response and Sean nearly nails her in the head with the salt shaker he’s reflexively picked up from the counter and drawn back.

“It’s me!” Lizzie rushes to say, heart beating wildly. “Oh my god, I’m so sorry!”

“Fuck, Liz,” Sean growls, setting the salt shaker back down with a loud clatter. “I think you just took five years off my life. Why were you sneaking around?”

He bends to pick up the spatula and toss it into the sink. Lizzie huffs a breath, “I wasn’t sneaking! I just…was quiet.”

Sean grabs a new spatula and shakes it in Lizzie’s direction, an amused scowl on his face. “You need a bell on your neck,” he teases. “Coffee’s ready to go, just hit the button.”

Lizzie makes an appreciative noise in the back of her throat and jabs at the start button on Sean’s fancy espresso machine, doing a little happy shimmy when the coffee starts brewing. “Did you already do PT today?” She asks, leaning on the counter and picking at the bowl of fruit Sean has out.

“Mhm,” Sean plates up eggs and bacon for both of them. “Bright and fucking early so I have plenty of time in my day to think about all the non-hockey things I get to do.”

“Well,” Lizzie waves her fork in the air, bits of egg falling to the counter, “I’m here to entertain and we all know how terrible of an ice skater I am, so non-hockey things are my specialty.”

Sean manages a faint smile and Lizzie nudges his thigh with her foot. “Seriously,” she continues, “I’m not going to stop until you’re in a better mood. And I’m stubborn as fuck.”

“Yeah, you really are,” he agrees easily. “But okay, we’ll do whatever you want to do. I won’t even complain, well, that much anyway.”

“It’s all I ask,” Lizzie replies with a beatific smile and a sarcastic flutter of her eyelashes.

After breakfast, Sean decides he wants to get in another workout and Lizzie takes the opportunity to get a few hours of work in. She’s knee deep in an Excel spreadsheet when Sean deposits another Scooby-Doo-esque sandwich in front of her, lettuce and tomato hanging out of the bread, cold cuts and cheese stacked cartoonishly high. A small pile of chips are on the plate next to it and he sets a fresh can of Cherry Coke down too. She tries not to think about the warmth that spreads in her chest when she remembers that Sean doesn’t drink Cherry Coke. She has an addiction though and for Sean to have the drink in his fridge means he stopped this morning to pick up a case.

“Thanks,” she beams up at him, chest feeling a little gooey. “My blood sugar was a little low.”

“I know,” Sean laughs, snagging a chip and crunching on it loudly. “I could hear you starting to mutter to yourself and you only do that when you’re getting hangry.”

Lizzie wrinkles her nose at him, but can’t dispute the fact. She shrugs and picks at the corner of the sandwich, pinching off a small bite. There’s chipotle mayo on the bread and she spots a pickle as it slides onto the plate. It’s a perfect sandwich, made exactly to her liking.

And Sean’s probably made her dozens of sandwiches over the course of their friendship, so she doesn’t know why this one is making her heart flutter.

“Eat up, Lizzie,” Sean takes a bite out of one half of the sandwich and finishes his sentence with his mouth full, “time to show you downtown Salt Lake.”

Two hours later, Lizzie’s bundled up against the lightly falling snow and taking two steps for Sean’s every one to keep up. He pauses at the end of the block and waits for her, grinning.

“What?” Lizzie huffs, brushing her staticky hair off of her face. She’s cold, but sweating slightly, and her nose feels frozen. Sean, of course, looks like he belongs in the cold weather with his perfectly flushed cheeks and the dusting of snow bright against the black of his puffer and beanie.

“Nothing,” he says, holding out a gloved hand for her to take. “You just really do not look like you’re enjoying this.”

Lizzie takes his hand and ignores the muffled spark that travels up her arm when his fingers close around hers. This is practical, it’s just so she doesn’t fall behind and get lost.

His fingers squeeze hers and Lizzie squeezes back.

“It’s been a while since I dealt with snow,” she admits. “Phoenix has made me soft.”

“Let’s get you a hot chocolate then,” Sean offers, tugging her gently back into the crowds. Lizzie gets her hot chocolate and they split a pretzel, Sean biting off a chunk straight from the piece in Lizzie’s hand. Salt crystals scatter and a few grains stick to the stubble on Sean’s cheek.

“Messy eater,” Lizzie teases, reaching up to brush the salt from his face. Sean briefly leans into her touch and Lizzie ignores the way his gaze locks on her face, studying her as her face falls into a more neutral expression. He doesn’t say anything, but he takes hold of her hand again as they explore the shops and other offerings of downtown.

The next few days fall into a similar pattern - Sean does his PT, Lizzie does a couple of hours of work, he feeds her and then they explore Utah. They see the Olympic Park and Lizzie hops in a bobsled, screaming her head off the entire ride and falling into Sean’s arms when she climbs out, legs wobbly and adrenaline spiking in her veins.

“Oh my god!” Her eyes are wide and her hands shake a little. “That’s actually insane. Like, I have no idea how athletes do that all the time.”

“We can mark Olympic bobsledding off the future career paths, huh?” Sean teases, tugging at the end of Lizzie’s ponytail.

“Definitely!” She bumps his hip with hers. “I think we can safely take all sports off the table.”

She trips up the stairs as if to punctuate her sentence.

Christmas Eve rolls around and they’ve been inside for two days because it started snowing and didn’t let up. Lizzie’s curled up on the couch with her crochet project on her lap and a thick blanket wrapped around her shoulders that she doesn’t need because the fireplace is cracking, letting off plenty of heat. It smells like the gingerbread cookies she’d taken out of the oven half an hour ago and the pine candle she’d dug out of a hall closet.

It feels like home.

“If you spend any more time on the couch, you’re going to fuse with the cushions,” Sean teases from his end of the couch.

“You’ve been here just as long as I have,” Lizzie kicks a foot out to nudge his thigh. “Maybe we both just give up on life and become couch people.”

Sean tips his head back to rest on the arm and Lizzie watches the column of his neck move as he swallows. “I could get on board with that,” he says, shifting his shoulder in a circle.

“Shoulder bugging you?”

“It shouldn’t be,” Sean grumbles. “But the weather fucks with it, I think.”

Lizzie sets her crocheting to the side and pats the couch next to her. “Come here, I’ll give you a really mediocre massage that definitely won’t help,” she laughs and Sean shakes his head, but shifts around anyway and comes to sit closer to her, blanket tangled in his legs. His body radiates heat and Lizzie finds herself subconsciously leaning into him as she settles her hands on his shoulders. He’s broad and warm, muscles jumping under her touch.

They’re both quiet as she works, the noise of ESPN SportsCenter (Sean’s choice) fading into the background. Lizzie’s thumbs dig into the knotted muscles at the nape of Sean’s neck and she can feel his shoulders release some of their tension.

“Feels good,” Sean mumbles, dropping his chin to his chest and changing the angle for Lizzie’s fingers to dig into a different muscle.

She hums a non-response, focused on the faint stripe of paler skin where he’d gotten a haircut and the scent mix of his laundry detergent and soap. Lizzie’s fingers tingle a little and she scratches her nails against the back of his neck, a noiseless laugh slipping past her lips when he shivers.

“Can I ask,” she starts, quietly, “why your family isn’t spending Christmas break out here?”

Sean’s quiet and Lizzie worries that she stepped on a land mine for a minute, until he clears his throat and ruffles a hand through his hair. “I told them not to come,” he admits. “They would’ve wanted to go to a game, you know my mom, she would’ve been all worried about me. I just didn’t feel like dealing with the whole thing.”

“So the only plan before I got here was for you to be miserable alone in the house?” Lizzie asks rhetorically, thumbs still working at a knot in between his shoulder blades.

Sean shifts again and drops his head back against Lizzie’s shoulder, looking up at her with big, puppy dog eyes.

She can’t help herself, she melts.

“Old plan is irrelevant,” he says, smiling a little. “I’m glad you’re here and we’re having a good time, right?”

“Right,” Lizzie replies softly. Her heart pounds in her chest and she doesn’t think before she leans forward and kisses Sean’s temple, a quick graze of her lips more than anything. Her hand slides up from his shoulder and curls over his heart, fingers pressing lightly into his shirt. Sean freezes and Lizzie’s eyes widen when she realizes what she did.

“Liz…” Sean says her name slowly, planting one hand on the edge of the couch to push into a sitting position.

She shakes her head and pats his shoulder. “It’s the heat. Super hot in here, do you want a cookie? Or should we order dinner?”

“I…um…dinner sounds good,” Sean sounds bewildered and falls easily to the side of the couch when Lizzie nudges at his shoulder and practically rolls off the couch. She’s in the kitchen in a few quick strides, putting distance between them. Sean watches her go, eyebrows drawn together over his nose. “Lizzie…” he calls at her back.

“Chinese still good?” She asks, ignoring him. “I know we said it earlier, but if you changed your mind, I don’t mind switching up.” She starts cleaning the counters, transferring the gingerbread cookies from the baking tray to a plate.

Sean gets off the couch too, follows Lizzie into the kitchen and leans his forearms against the counter. “Chinese is still fine,” he says slowly. “But, can we… Lizzie, stop for a second.”

She pauses, crumpling up the tin foil in her hand, a gingerbread cookie hovering in mid-air.

They stare at each other wordlessly, the tension in the air growing thick.

“It was nothing,” Lizzie finally mutters, unconvincingly.

“Then why’d you run away?” Sean counters.

“Because I needed to order dinner,” Lizzie sets the cookie down on the plate with the others.

Sean shakes his head. “No you didn’t,” he squints at her, head cocked. “Can we just…”

“Nope,” Lizzie shakes her head. “It was nothing. I’m drunk.”

“You’re stone cold sober,” Sean snorts a laugh. “We both are. And I want to talk about it.”

“Well I don’t,” Lizzie snaps back. Sean shakes his head and steps closer to her, her heart jackrabbiting in her chest. “There’s nothing to talk about, Sean.”

“But what if there is?” He takes another step closer to her and Lizzie finds herself chewing at her lower lip, leaning closer to him. “I meant what I said before, I’m glad you’re here. I’ve missed you and I don’t think I realized just how much until you showed up on my doorstep.”

The air crackles between them and Lizzie nods reflexively, words caught in the back of her throat because something’s changing and she’s powerless to stop it. She doesn’t think she wants to stop it, even if she could.

“Tell me to stop right now if I’m out of line. Tell me to stop, Liz, and I’ll stop. I’ll go right back to the couch and we’ll order dinner and we’ll never talk about it again,” Sean says, finally closing the gap between them and lifting a hesitant hand to cup Lizzie’s cheek.

She leans into his touch instinctively, her breath puffing a soft sigh against his palm. Lizzie stares up at him with searching eyes and Sean maintains eye contact, refusing to look away from her as he studies her face for a hint.

“Sean,” she murmurs his name softly, lifting up on her toes, “you’re not out of line, but…”

Lizzie can’t verbalize her fears, her worries that this will ruin their friendship. It’s so easy being with him and she doesn’t want to lose that.

“I know,” his mouth ticks up at the corner, his eyes softening, “it’s supposed to be scary as shit, right? But you’re my best friend and it’s not scary at all, because it’s you.”

Her breath catches in her throat and Sean leans in closer.

“I’m going to kiss you now, okay?” He whispers, his breath a warm brush of pepperminty air on her cheek.

All Lizzie can do is nod and then Sean’s mouth is on hers, warm and soft and perfect. Her hands find their way to his shoulders, curling around the back of his neck, holding her upright as she kisses him back. He tilts her head with the hand on her face, his other hand finding her hip and pulling her close.

Lizzie’s been kissed before, felt the butterflies and the drumbeat of anxiety in her chest, felt the kick of adrenaline in her veins or the pit of dread when it becomes obvious that the guy is a bad kisser or there’s no chemistry.

Kissing Sean is like a warm blanket on a cold day, all of her thoughts and worries silenced because it feels so right. There’s no anxiety in her stomach, no sinking feeling of wrongness.

There’s just Sean’s mouth, curving into a grin against hers, his tongue tracing over her lower lip until she parts them slightly for him. There’s his hands on her body, fingers dipping under the hem of her sweater and brushing against her bare skin. There’s his thumb stroking an arc across her cheekbone.

Lizzie leans into the kiss, pressing her body against Sean’s and she lets out a little whimper that’s swallowed up by his mouth. Sean’s hand tightens on her waist and she hates to have to break the kiss, but she’s starting to get lightheaded from lack of oxygen.

She’s breathing hard, fingers still curled around Sean’s neck, when she says, completely breathlessly, “I want you to do that again.”

Sean laughs against her cheek, forehead resting on hers, and he nods. “I’ll kiss you as many times as you let me, Elizabeth Arnold,” he replies, kissing her again, softer this time.

Lizzie’s not sure how long they stand there, arms wrapped around each other, kissing and giggling, but Sean lifts her onto the counter at one point and she can’t stop smoothing her hands from his neck and down to his shoulders, her entire body fizzy and light. Sean’s hands are warm on her lower back and he keeps shaking his head in disbelief, muttering to himself how he can’t believe it’s finally happening.

“What are you saying?” she asks, scratching her nails against his scalp. She’s always been a touchy kind of person, but it feels different now that she’s allowed to touch Sean like this, she can’t keep her hands off of him.

Sean laughs, his smile wide and infectious, and he presses a kiss to her cheek. “I just…I’ve been trying to figure out how to, you know, bring this up. I was going to just plant one on you on New Year’s Eve.”

“That would’ve been a bold move,” Lizzie comments dryly.

“Yeah, well, it was a last ditch effort plan,” he rolls his eyes. “I’ve been thinking about it, about us, for a while. And you showing up out of the blue? Felt kind of like fate.”

“I’m really glad I decided to come then,” she leans in and kisses him again. “Maybe I’ll have to change my return flight.”

“Cancel it,” Sean says, eyes twinkling. “Work remote, stay here with me for a while.”

It’s not the worst idea Sean’s ever had and it sounds pretty appealing to Lizzie. More time with Sean is never a bad thing and now that they’ve added kissing? She’d be pretty stupid to go back to Phoenix on the second as planned.

“Okay, yeah,” Lizzie nods, answering with only a few seconds of thought. Despite her surprise trip to see Sean, she’s not a spontaneous person, so this feels crazy, but right. She needs a little spontaneity in her life. “I can probably swing remote work through January? If that’s okay? And then we’ll reassess?”

She can hear how her voice ticks up at the end, making each sentence a question, and she hates how unsure it makes her sound.

Sean cups her face in his hands and she melts at his touch. “It’s more than okay. What do you say about getting back on the couch and making out until dinner gets here?”

“Second best idea you’ve had all night,” Lizzie replies, shrieking a giggle when Sean lifts her into the air to carry her back to the couch.

“What was the first?” He asks, draping his body over hers and dragging the blanket over them so they’re in a warm, cozy pile. His leg slides between hers and Lizzie hooks her leg over his hip, her foot resting on the back of his thigh. Yesterday it would’ve been one of Lizzie’s wildest fantasies to be curled around Sean like this, but right now it feels like she’s been doing it forever.

With a cheeky smirk and already giggling, she replies, “deciding on Chinese for dinner.”

[pookie-mulder]

Nov. 2024-Jan. 2025 fic roundup

Gonna be honest with you guys, I didn’t feel like reading much the last few months. Certain events have made it much more appealing to doomscroll for eternity. I’m slowly getting back into it, though! I can’t promise roundups every month — we’ll have to see how it goes.

📸🇮🇪 Forgive Us Our Trespasses by Taffy Northwood

I loved this historical AU! My heart longs for the opulence and beauty of the turn of the century, so this fic, with its fancy dresses and mansions, was a treat.

I actually only got halfway through this one before my brain went kaput, but I’m hoping to finish it soon!

🦃🍗 far away to the west and south by audries

An incredible thanksgiving one-shot featuring M&S hanging with the gunmen! The writing is incredible. You can feel the longing and aching and yearning in each word. I love the way they love each other!

🛌🫂 Coalesce by @spookyjordan

This oneshot hits all the right spots. It’s angsty, H/C smut that’s as sad as it is hot. I love it!

🐺🎿 Backtracking by Kel and Scetti

M&S go on a ski trip to find a mystical Viking. I loved the blending of txf mythology with Norse mythology, plus the whole side plot that existed for no other reason than to reveal a pun at the end. I was hoping for a more survival aspect (no surprise there), but c’est la vie.

🌀⛈️ Camping by Amperage and Livengoo

A nice trip to the forest where everything goes wrong. I enjoyed the back-and-forth between the authors, who yes anded like nobody’s business. Is it the best, most life-changing fic I’ve ever read? No, but it’s still a lot of fun!

🤫👶 Secret Mission: Baby Spooky by @fmluder24

I looove a good IVF fic. Just as waffles are a vehicle for butter and syrup, IVF fics are a vehicle for angst and h/c and emotional intimacy and vulnerability. And because we saw so little of that whole arc in canon, we can pretend that almost any of these fics are What Really Happened. Anyway, go read this one!

[asasfsas24]

Weather Patterns, Winds, and Waves for 'Thu, 23 Jan 2025'

**January 23, 2025 (Thursday)** 🌤 Weather Overview for Today and Tomorrow Here's the weather and ocean conditions forecast for the Chiba area for January 24-25, 2025. Expect northwesterly to northeasterly winds, with stronger northeasterly winds over the sea. Waves are anticipated to be between 1.5 to 2 meters, possibly reaching 2.5 meters on the 25th, with some swell. The wind may cause choppy conditions. It's a neap tide, so be mindful of the high and low tide times. On the 24th, clouds will increase in the afternoon, with potential rain at night, so stay alert for weather changes. **Chiba Area Weather Summary (Choshi Local Meteorological Observatory)** Eastern Japan is under the influence of high pressure. Chiba Prefecture is currently experiencing clear skies. On the 23rd, high pressure will continue to bring sunny weather. On the 24th, while high pressure persists, a trough and moist air will lead to sunny skies turning cloudy in the afternoon, with possible rain at night. Along the Pacific coast of Chiba, expect moderate waves with some swell from the 23rd to the 24th. 🌊 Weather Map, Wind, and Wave Forecast for Tomorrow and the Day After **Chiba North/Chiba South Area Wind and Wave Forecast (Japan Meteorological Agency)** **Forecast for Tomorrow** 2025-01-24 - Chiba North Wind: Northwesterly, shifting to northeasterly, stronger over the sea - Chiba North Waves: 1.5 meters, increasing to 2 meters with swell - Chiba South Wind: Westerly, shifting to northerly, stronger over the sea - Chiba South Waves: 1.5 meters, increasing to 2 meters with swell **Forecast for the Day After Tomorrow** 2025-01-25 - Chiba North Wind: Northerly - Chiba North Waves: 2 meters - Chiba South Wind: Northerly - Chiba South Waves: 2 meters, increasing to 2.5 meters 🌊 Tide Information for Tomorrow (Chiba/Shonan Area) **Tide Information for Chiba (Katsuura) and Shonan (Enoshima)** **Chiba Area (Katsuura)** 2025/01/24 - Sunrise: 06:43 / Sunset: 16:58 - Neap Tide - High Tide: 10:37 (121cm) - Low Tide: 19:15 (39cm) **Shonan Area (Enoshima)** 2025/01/24 - Sunrise: 06:46 / Sunset: 17:01 - Neap Tide - High Tide: 02:29 (99cm) / 10:29 (119cm) - Low Tide: 04:22 (98cm) / 19:29 (39cm) That's all for today's update! #WeatherMap #PressurePattern #Tide #TideInformation #Calendar #Sunrise #Sunset #Surfing #Surf #Surfer #Wave #Swell #Tide #Chiba #Shonan --- **Announcement** I am excited to introduce my Kindle eBook series, "For Catching the Best Waves" (8 book series). https://www.amazon.com/s?i=digital-text&rh=p_27%3AHARUBEE&_encoding=UTF8&ref=dbs_mng_calw_a_1 The first book in the series, "For Catching the Best Waves," focuses on "Weekend Surfers," exploring various styles and how to catch the best waves with limited time. It provides foundational knowledge on reading weather maps to find the best surfing spots, making it a valuable resource for urban weekend surfers, beginners, and those new to surfing. By reading this series, you'll gain insights into which areas have waves based on daily weather maps. It's essential reading for weekend surfers to enjoy surfing safely and for beginners to understand the basics before heading to the beach. Through this book, I hope to share the allure and depth of surfing, helping readers understand the various meteorological and natural phenomena on Earth. It also aims to inspire thoughts on environmental conservation, ensuring we can continue to enjoy surfing in clean oceans.

[whileiamdying]

David Lynch, Twin Peaks Creator and Mulholland Drive Director, Dies at 78: 'There's a Big Hole in the World'

The director was a four-time Oscar nominee By Victoria Edel Published on January 16, 2025 @ 01:28PM EST

David Lynch in 1984. PHOTO: DE LAURENTIIS ENTERTAINMENT GROUP/RGR COLLECTION/ALAMY

David Lynch has died at the age of 78, his family announced on Thursday, Jan. 16.

"It is with deep regret that we, his family, announce the passing of the man and the artist, David Lynch.  We would appreciate some privacy at this time," read a message on Facebook. "There’s a big hole in the world now that he’s no longer with us. But, as he would say, 'Keep your eye on the donut and not on the hole.' "

"It’s a beautiful day with golden sunshine and blue skies all the way," they added.

Lynch, who would have turned 79 this Monday, Jan. 20, was best known for creating the 1990 TV series Twin Peaks. The show spawned a 1992 feature film, Twin Peaks: Fire Walk with Me, and a 2017 revival season. A four-time Oscar nominee, he also directed films including The Elephant Man, Blue Velvet and Mulholland Drive. He was known for his distinctive style that became described as “Lynchian.”

Lynch was born in Missoula, Mont., in 1946 and grew up in Spokane, Wash., and Boise, Idaho. His father was a forest research scientist, and Lynch spent much of his childhood outside, exploring. Those same mysterious Pacific Northwest woods would eventually inspire Twin Peaks.

When he was a teenager, the family moved to Alexandria, Va. He had "a kind of happy persona” there, he told PEOPLE in 1990, but soon learned “all the thrilling things happened just after school or between classes. It added up to some sort of pitiful joke — so constricting it would drive you nuts. It inspired me to try to break rules. Behind it all, I was getting it together to be a painter.”

David Lynch in 1984. KOBAL/SHUTTERSTOCK

Lynch went to Philadelphia to study art at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, and there he began experimenting with film and animation. "I loved Philadelphia," he said in 1990. "The most corrupt, fear-ridden city I've ever seen. It's one of my major film influences."

In 1975, he released The Grandmother, a 35-minute blent of live-action and animation about a lonely boy whose dead grandmother comes back to life. It earned him a spot in the American Film Institute's Center for Advanced Film Studies in L.A. He spent the next five years working on his feature debut, 1977’s Eraserhead. To support himself, he held a series of odd jobs, including a paper route.

"$9.80 a night was not a thrilling rate, so I was pretty depressed," he said in 1990. "But I worked it to where I was shooting the route in one hour, almost to the second — a totally efficient hour. You learn to fold, bag and drive at the same time."

"I got an awful lot of pressure to abandon Eraserhead and do something worthwhile," he added. "I just couldn't. It was frustrating, but also beautiful." Eraserhead had a small opening, but gained interest as a midnight movie and ultimately became a cult favorite. One fan was Mel Brooks, who hired Lynch to create a film about Joseph Merrick. That movie, 1980’s The Elephant Man was a hit and garnered eight Oscar nominations, including best director and best adapted screenplay for Lynch.

David Lynch (right) directing Dean Stockwell and Francesca Annis on the set of 'Dune'. NANCY MORAN/SYGMA VIA GETTY 

Next he directed an adaptation of Dune, released in 1984. It received mostly negative reviews upon it release, though it went on to be a cult favorite. “It was a heartache for me. It was a failure, and I didn’t have final cut,” he told The Hollywood Reporter in 2020. “I’ve told this story a billion times. It’s not the film I wanted to make. I like certain parts of it very much — but it was a total failure for me."

He released Blue Velvet, starring Isabella Rossellini, in 1986. The erotic thriller was criticized by some for being too violent, but he received a second Oscar nomination for best director. "When people first meet David, they expect him to be neurotic and crazy and sick, but he's not," Rossellini, who was romantically involved with Lynch at the time, told PEOPLE in 1990. “It's just that he looks at life in a different way.” He said of his creative inclinations, “I'm in love with ideas, and I'm out there trying to catch them.”

His next major film was 1990's Wild at Heart, starring Nicolas Cage and Laura Dern, who had also appeared in Blue Velvet. She told PEOPLE in 1990, “David's greatest gift is that he sees making a movie like a trip to Disneyland." Lynch described Wild at Heart as a “violent comedy, a love story in a twisted world.” He explained, “Wild at Heart goes to extremes — it's not a film for everybody. But as shocking as some things in it are, they're based on the truth of human nature, and there's a lot of humor and love wrapped up in that.”

Kyle MacLachlan (left) and David Lynch on the set of 'Blue Velvet' in 1986. EVERETT/SHUTTERSTOCK

Twin Peaks also premiered that same year. "Working at this speed is unusually intense, but I really like it," the director told PEOPLE. “It gets kind of crazy.” The mystery TV series reunited him with Dune and Blue Velvet star Kyle MacLachlan. 

Set in the titular, fictional Washington town, Twin Peaks explored the mystery of who killed Laura Palmer (Sheryl Lee), though the surreal series came to mean so much more to fans. Not that Lynch was forthcoming about any of the ideas he intentionally incorporated into his work. "I never talk about themes," he said in 1990. "No way. A film should stand on its own. People talk way too much about a film up front, and that diminishes it."

MacLachlan praised Lynch as “a sound, mood and rhythm director. David hasn't forgotten the images, fears and desires you have when you're 10 or 18 or 25. They're so pure, these images, that they have a lot of impact.”

David Lynch in 1986. BONNIE SCHIFFMAN/GETTY

"I like things that go into hidden, mysterious places, places I want to explore that are very disturbing," Lynch said. "In that disturbing thing, there is sometimes tremendous poetry and truth." The combination of violence, surrealism, mysticism and blue-collar life would come to define the “Lynchian” aesthetic.

Twin Peaks aired for two seasons on ABC. It was an instant success when it premiered; PEOPLE included Laura Palmer on it annual list of most interesting people at the end of 1990. But the second season was derailed when ABC executive Bob Iger made Lynch reveal in the premiere who had killed Palmer, a mystery the director had wanted to save for the end of the series. Ratings declined, Lynch was unhappy, and the show was canceled.

In 1992, Lynch visited the story again in the prequel film Twin Peaks: Fire Walk with Me. And he returned for a third season of the series, which aired on Showtime, in 2017. “I called all the regulars — or most everyone — and I had a chat,” Lynch told Deadline in 2018 about bringing the cast back together. “These people are like family, so it was so beautiful calling them and talking to them again and getting together like for a family reunion.” He guessed that 99 percent of the surviving cast was happy to return. Dern also joined the show for the third season. 

Lynch felt season three was more comparable in quality to the first than the second, which he did not like. He received nine Emmy nominations for his work on Twin Peaks.

David Lynch in 2015. GLENN HUNT/GETTY

Lynch directed four more films: 1997’s Lost Highway, 1999’s The Straight Story, 2001’s Mulholland Drive and 2006’s Inland Empire. He received his third Oscar nomination for best director (and fourth overall) for helming Mulholland Drive, which followed an aspiring actress in Los Angeles played by Naomi Watts. It was originally conceived as a TV show.

“It was a closed-ended pilot, and then the ideas came to make it into a feature,” he told Interview in 2012. “I was meditating, and all these ideas just flowed in, in one meditation — all the ideas to finish that into a feature.” In 2019, Lynch received an honorary Oscar for his contributions to film.

Lynch never gave up his early love of painting and continued to create visual art throughout his life. In 1994, he published Images, a book that featured painting, photographs and images from his films. He was also involved in several music projects, including working on the scores of several of his films.

In 2006, he published a book, Catching the Big Fish: Meditation, Consciousness, and Creativity, about transcendental meditation, and in 2018, he published Room to Dream, which was a hybrid of memoir and biography. He directed music videos for artists like Moby, Nine Inch Nails and Donovan, as well as many commercials. He also portrayed director John Ford in Steven Spielberg's 2022 film The Fabelmans.

David Lynch receiving his honorary Oscar in 2019. MICHAEL BUCKNER/VARIETY/PENSKE MEDIA VIA GETTY

Lynch was married to first wife Peggy from 1967 to 1974. They shared daughter Jennifer, who also became a director. Jennifer told PEOPLE in 1990, “He was not your normal dad, but he's been the best dad he could be, and we've had a blast.”

From 1977 to 1987, he was married to Mary Fisk. They shared son Austin. From 2006 to 2007, he was married to Mary Sweeney, with whom he shared son Riley. In 2009, he married Emily Stofle, who appeared in Inland Empire and the third season of Twin Peaks. They shared daughter Lula Boginia. Stofle filed for divorce in 2023.

Looking back on his one-of-a-kind career, Lynch was mostly content. “Well, I'm sort of proud of everything except Dune,” he said in a 2020 YouTube video. "I’ve liked so much working in different mediums. It’s not a thing about pride, it’s more like the enjoyment of the doing, enjoyment of the work."

He added, "I’ve just enjoyed working in all these different mediums, and I feel, again, really lucky to have been able to enjoy those things and be able to live."

[spacetimewithstuartgary]

Bright comet's tail dazzles in images from spacecraft

From Jan. 11 to 15, 2025, a bright comet surged through images from the ESA (European Space Agency) and NASA SOHO (Solar and Heliospheric Observatory) spacecraft. Called C/2024 G3 (ATLAS), the comet made its closest pass to the sun, or perihelion, on Jan. 13, soaring a mere 8 million miles (or 9% of the average Earth-sun distance) from our star.

These views of comet ATLAS were captured by SOHO's LASCO (Large Angle and Spectrometric Coronagraph) instrument, which uses a disk to cover the sun's surface and reveal fainter details in the solar atmosphere (or corona). Although this comet was first spotted in April 2024 by the Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS) survey, LASCO has helped discover more than 5,000 other comets as they flew past the sun.

Karl Battams, LASCO's principal investigator at the U.S. Naval Research Lab in Washington, D.C., processed some of the images to bring out fine details in the comet's tail and create the sequence above. When bright comets like this one pass close to the sun, their tails often react to fluctuations in the solar wind, a stream of particles and energy constantly flowing off the sun. Heliophysicists can study the reaction of the tails to better understand the sun's effects on its neighborhood and on comets passing by.

While it was briefly visible in Northern Hemisphere skies just after sunset near perihelion, comet ATLAS is now slowly receding from the sun and is best seen from the Southern Hemisphere, where the comet is moving into darker night skies. However, there are signs the comet might have broken up after its pass by the sun, meaning it could fade rapidly over the coming days.

[sapphire-weapon]

Worst Aeon take that I've seen was someone insisting that the jet ski part of trailer proves that she must've brought it along to island in an elaborate plan specifically to save Leon. As if she's a fortune teller who must've known he'd be there, knew exactly how the entire mission would turn out, knew that he'd turn down the helicopter ride and that he'd need to quickly save Ashley from the explosion before she arrived. Did this person even play the god damn game or know anything about Ada at all?

I'm so scared that when they realise SW has seized the opportunity to actually make her a character and give her an entire story that isn't about running around in the shadows saving him, there'll be so much uproar that Capcom won't continue on the current path. It's irrational, but god DAMN these people are so fuckin loud that I'm terrified they'll ruin the experience for fans who actually like her and enjoy the new timeline.

in their defense

that's literally what happened in OG's Separate Ways.

OG's SW reveals that Ada planned everything in RE4 -- even down to the point of somehow making sure that Leon would be the agent assigned to this mission in the first place. because OG's SW was fucking garbage. and that's also why Aeon stans are so obsessed with the idea that Ada left a little love note for Leon in the bear keychain, since it has that zipper in the back -- because it's not implausible, because she knew all along that she was going to toss him that key eventually.

but if it helps at all

the average dev cycle for an RE game these days seems to be about 6 years. whatever follow-up game to RE4make they're making, it's already well in development. DG said to expect the next title in the Remake series no sooner than 2025, but more likely 2026. the backlash to SW would have to be RE6 levels of outrage for Capcom to scrap 3-4 years of development.

and Capcom seems to be acutely aware of the fact that SW is going to cause a shitstorm. I was thinking about this yesterday, actually. it is so beyond bizarre that they sat on the confirmation of SW's existence for literal years, when everyone knew it was going to be a thing that inevitably happened with a remake of Resident Evil 4 -- and not only did they sit on the announcement and refuse to confirm anything, they only gave a seven day window in between announcement and launch.

from a marketing perspective, doing that is making a deliberate choice to hamstring launch-day sales for the sake of withholding information. the sweet spot for this is usually 3-6 months between announcement and launch, because it's enough time for people to talk about it and spread the word but not so much time that people get fatigued/distracted and forget about it. but to keep the game in the conversation, more trailers and gameplay videos and interviews need to be released consistently in that 3-6 month window.

doing it this way means that Capcom consciously chose to deny themselves that crucial window for word of mouth to spread, because they'd rather have a highly curated pre-launch marketing campaign where they only have to show under sixty seconds of story content and never have to talk about it in interviews -- because they don't want people to have enough time and/or information to become suspicious or start speculating about just how drastically the story is going to change, because they know that diehards and purists are going to be fucking angry.

they basically made a calculated decision and came to the conclusion that it was financially in their best interest to try to prevent people who would otherwise normally buy the DLC from deciding they didn't want it, as opposed to trying to spread the word and rope in as many new sales as possible. their goal was to prevent loss, not promote growth.

which is

kinda nuts when you consider what the fucking point of paid DLC is in the first place.

[ralphfernandes]

Best Destinations in India for Summer 2025 – Where Should You Go?

As summer approaches, it's time to escape the scorching heat and explore breathtaking destinations across India. Whether you're seeking adventure, serene landscapes, or budget-friendly getaways, India offers a variety of travel options perfect for your summer vacation. Here are the top 5 budget-friendly summer destinations in 2025 that promise unforgettable experiences without burning a hole in your pocket!

1. Kullu-Manali – A Haven for Adventure Seekers

Nestled in the heart of Himachal Pradesh, Kullu-Manali is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush greenery, this destination offers thrilling activities like paragliding, trekking, river rafting, and skiing in Solang Valley. Whether you're exploring the scenic Hadimba Temple, enjoying a scenic drive to Rohtang Pass, or shopping at Mall Road, Manali ensures an exhilarating yet budget-friendly summer escape.

Must-Do: River rafting in Beas River, trek to Jogini Waterfalls, and explore Old Manali’s vibrant cafés.

2. Kashmir – The Paradise on Earth

If you dream of a summer retreat in a place that feels like heaven, Kashmir should be at the top of your list. Known for its mesmerizing Dal Lake, vibrant tulip gardens, and snow-clad mountains, Kashmir is the perfect mix of beauty and tranquility. You can take a shikara ride in Srinagar, explore the meadows of Gulmarg, or admire the picturesque landscapes of Pahalgam. With budget-friendly homestays and delicious Kashmiri cuisine, this destination is perfect for travelers seeking peace and adventure alike.

Must-Do: Gondola ride in Gulmarg, houseboat stay on Dal Lake, and trek in Betaab Valley.

3. Nainital – The Lake District of India

For those looking for a scenic hill station with a refreshing climate, Nainital in Uttarakhand is an ideal choice. This charming destination is known for its emerald lakes, colonial architecture, and lush green surroundings. Whether you're boating in Naini Lake, visiting Naina Devi Temple, or strolling along the lively Mall Road, Nainital offers a rejuvenating experience on a budget.

Must-Do: Sunset view from Tiffin Top, ropeway ride to Snow View Point, and shopping at Tibetan Market.

4. Ladakh – A Land of High Passes and Breathtaking Landscapes

For travelers seeking an offbeat adventure, Ladakh is the ultimate destination. Known for its dramatic landscapes, Buddhist monasteries, and thrilling bike expeditions, Ladakh is a dream come true for backpackers and nature lovers. Ride through the scenic Khardung La Pass, explore the surreal Pangong Lake, and experience the unique culture of Leh without exceeding your budget.

Must-Do: Camping at Pangong Lake, bike ride to Nubra Valley, and visit to Thiksey Monastery.

5. Goa – Sun, Sand, and Budget Bliss

A summer vacation in Goa means pristine beaches, vibrant nightlife, and delicious seafood—all within a budget! Whether you’re relaxing at Palolem Beach, exploring the historic forts, or indulging in water sports, Goa never disappoints. Off-season summer discounts make it even more affordable, ensuring you get the best experience without splurging too much.

Must-Do: Dolphin spotting at Morjim Beach, exploring Old Goa’s churches, and trying Goan street food at local shacks.

Conclusion

From the serene valleys of Kashmir to the thrilling landscapes of Ladakh and the sun-kissed beaches of Goa, India has no shortage of incredible summer getaways for 2025. Whether you're an adventure enthusiast, nature lover, or someone looking for a peaceful retreat, these budget-friendly summer destinations offer the perfect blend of relaxation and exploration.

Pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable journey with Radha Gopinath Tours, your trusted travel partner for customized and group tours! 

📅 Limited slots available!📞 Call/WhatsApp: 9820408838📩 Email: Radhagopinathtours@gmail.com📌 Follow us for more travel updates: Instagram | Facebook

Let’s embark on a journey filled with snowy adventures, scenic landscapes, and unforgettable memories! Book your spot today!

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[zavros1]

Northern Lights in Maryland 2025: Witnessing Aurora Borealis in Maryland

Northern Lights in Maryland: What You Need to Know for 2025

If you're searching for Northern Lights in Maryland in 2025, this year could bring some breathtaking celestial displays for nature enthusiasts. While the Aurora Borealis is typically seen in high-latitude regions, Maryland occasionally experiences this stunning phenomenon during strong geomagnetic storms, pushing the lights farther south. Seeing the Northern Lights in Maryland is a rare but mesmerizing event, and 2025 holds promising forecasts. Let’s explore what causes the Aurora Borealis in Maryland and what we can expect in the coming year.

What Causes Northern Lights in Maryland?

Since Maryland is not located within the Arctic Circle, the Aurora Borealis is not a frequent sight. However, during periods of heightened solar activity, highly charged particles from the sun collide with Earth's atmospheric gases, producing dazzling displays of light. These geomagnetic disturbances can extend the Northern Lights in Maryland, making them visible under the right conditions.

The last significant display of the Aurora Borealis in Maryland occurred on October 10, 2024, giving residents a rare opportunity to witness this natural spectacle. Additionally, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) issued a forecast for another possible Northern Lights in Maryland event on December 31, 2024, due to an incoming solar storm. With Maryland included in the viewing region, excitement continues to build for more potential sightings.

Anticipation for Northern Lights in Maryland 2025

The year 2024 brought numerous solar events, including multiple Aurora Borealis sightings. As we move into 2025, experts predict that the frequency of Northern Lights in Maryland could increase due to heightened solar activity linked to the 11-year solar cycle.

The solar maximum of Solar Cycle 25 is expected to peak between 2024 and 2026, which could enhance the chances of aurora sightings. Space weather experts predict that sunspot activity will likely be at its strongest throughout 2025, increasing the likelihood of witnessing the vibrant hues of the Northern Lights in Maryland.

According to a Maryland Department of Natural Resources report (January 2025), there is a favorable probability of Aurora Borealis Maryland due to promising geomagnetic conditions. With the right circumstances, Northern Lights in Maryland could become more than just a rare phenomenon in the coming months.

How to View Northern Lights in Maryland 2025?

Seeing the Northern Lights in Maryland is an extraordinary experience, and with careful planning, you can increase your chances of witnessing this celestial wonder.

Monitor the Kp-Index – The Kp-Index measures geomagnetic storm intensity. A reading of 7 or higher increases the likelihood of auroras reaching mid-latitude regions like Maryland.

Follow Space Weather Updates – Stay updated through sources like NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center and Aurora Alerts, which provide real-time forecasts.

Head to Dark Sky Locations – Light pollution reduces visibility. For the best views, travel to Western Maryland, where higher elevations and darker skies make it one of the prime locations for viewing the Northern Lights in Maryland.

Best Time for Viewing – The Aurora Borealis Forecast for Maryland 2025 suggests that the peak months to spot the lights will be January to March and October to December.

Aurora Borealis in Maryland: Myth or Reality?

For years, the idea of seeing the Aurora Borealis in Maryland seemed like a myth. However, increased solar activity in recent years has altered this perception. Solar flares and Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs) have made aurora sightings more frequent, turning what was once a rarity into an exciting possibility.

Additionally, reports and images shared by Maryland residents have proven that the Northern Lights in Maryland are no longer just a distant dream. With 2025 expected to be a strong year for solar activity, aurora chasers in Maryland could be in for a memorable experience.Stay updated on space weather conditions, head to dark sky locations, and be ready for what could be an extraordinary year for Northern Lights in Maryland!

[lostsoulcamp]

Bali Pass Trek 2025: Route, Itinerary & Best Time to Visit

The Bali Pass Trek is one of the most challenging and rewarding high-altitude treks in the Indian Himalayas. Situated in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, this trek takes you through lush meadows, dense forests, scenic rivers, and snow-covered passes. With an altitude of 16,240 ft (4,950 m), the Bali Pass Trek is a dream for adventure seekers looking to test their endurance while experiencing the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas.

If you're planning to embark on this incredible journey in 2025, here’s a complete guide covering the route, itinerary, and the best time to visit.

Why Choose Bali Pass Trek in 2025?

The Bali Pass Trek is known for its challenging terrain, remote trails, and stunning views of the Swargarohini, Kala Nag, and Bandarpoonch peaks. The year 2025 is an excellent time for this trek due to improved trekking infrastructure, well-marked trails, and increased availability of guided trekking groups. With eco-tourism on the rise, more trekkers are exploring offbeat routes like Bali Pass Trek, making it an exciting adventure for thrill-seekers.

Route of Bali Pass Trek

The Bali Pass Trek follows a mesmerizing route starting from Sankri, passing through beautiful meadows, glacial valleys, and ending near Yamunotri. Below is a breakdown of the trek route:

Starting Point: Sankri (6,397 ft)

Sankri is a small village and the base camp for several Himalayan treks, including Bali Pass Trek. It is well connected to Dehradun by road and serves as the starting point for this adventurous journey.

Sankri to Seema (8,600 ft)

The trek begins with a gentle walk through pine and oak forests, leading to Taluka. From Taluka, the trail follows the Supin River and ascends to Seema, a picturesque village known for its wooden houses and cultural charm.

Seema to Rainbasera (10,000 ft)

The path continues along the river, offering mesmerizing views of waterfalls and lush green landscapes. This section of the Bali Pass Trek is moderate in difficulty, making it a perfect warm-up before the steeper climbs ahead.

Rainbasera to Ruinsara Tal (11,800 ft)

One of the most scenic parts of the trek, Ruinsara Tal is a glacial lake surrounded by snow-covered peaks. The area is filled with alpine meadows, making it an excellent spot for acclimatization and rest.

Ruinsara Tal to Odari (13,450 ft)

As you gain altitude, the trail becomes steeper and more challenging. Odari is a high-altitude campsite with limited vegetation, offering stunning sunset and sunrise views over the Himalayas.

Odari to Bali Pass Summit (16,240 ft) & Descend to Lower Dhamni (11,500 ft)

This is the most challenging section of the Bali Pass Trek. The climb to the summit involves walking on glacial terrain and steep ridges. Once at the summit, you are rewarded with panoramic views of Bandarpoonch, Swargarohini, and other peaks. The descent to Lower Dhamni is steep and requires careful navigation.

Lower Dhamni to Yamunotri (10,800 ft) & Drive to Dehradun

The final leg of the trek leads to Yamunotri, a significant pilgrimage site and the origin of the Yamuna River. From here, a drive back to Dehradun marks the end of an unforgettable adventure.

Best Time to Visit Bali Pass Trek

The Bali Pass Trek is best done in two major seasons:

1. Summer (May to June)

Moderate temperatures with lush green valleys.

Clear views of the snow-capped peaks.

Less chance of extreme weather conditions.

2. Post-Monsoon (September to October)

Stunning autumn landscapes with golden-hued meadows.

Stable weather and excellent trekking conditions.

Crisp, clear skies offering excellent mountain visibility.

Winter (November to April) is not recommended due to heavy snowfall, making the trail inaccessible.

Essential Tips for Bali Pass Trek

Fitness & Preparation: The trek is challenging; physical fitness and endurance training are essential.

Acclimatization: Spend time at high-altitude camps to avoid altitude sickness.

Packing Essentials: Carry warm clothing, sturdy trekking boots, energy snacks, and water purification tablets.

Trekking Permits: Obtain required permissions before starting the trek.

Local Guides & Porters: Hiring a local guide ensures a safe and informative journey.

Conclusion

The Bali Pass Trek in 2025 promises an unparalleled adventure through diverse landscapes, from dense forests to snow-covered summits. This trek offers both a thrilling challenge and an opportunity to witness the raw beauty of the Indian Himalayas. Whether you're an experienced trekker or someone seeking to push their limits, Bali Pass Trek is a journey worth taking.

Start planning your adventure now, and get ready to conquer the majestic Bali Pass Trek in 2025!

[everesthikes]

Solo Trekking in Langtang Valley: Is It Still Possible in 2025?

Yes, the Langtang Valley Trek is possible to do solo, but there are several factors to consider, including new trekking regulations, safety concerns, permits, and overall logistics.

1. Guide Requirement – Can You Trek Completely Alone?

As of April 1, 2023, the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) has made it mandatory for all foreign trekkers to hire a licensed guide for most trekking routes in Nepal, including Langtang Valley. This regulation was introduced for safety reasons, as solo trekkers are more vulnerable to getting lost, facing altitude sickness, or encountering emergencies.

However, some independent trekkers still attempt the trek solo by navigating the rules carefully. If you prefer trekking without a group, you can still hire an independent licensed guide instead of joining an organized tour. The presence of a guide not only ensures compliance with regulations but also enhances your overall safety and trekking experience.

2. Permits Required for Solo Trekkers

To trek in the Langtang region, you need two main permits:

Langtang National Park Entry Permit: This costs around NPR 3,000 per person for foreigners and NPR 1,500 for SAARC nationals. It can be obtained in Kathmandu or at the park entry checkpoint in Dhunche.

TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Card: This previously had a separate category for solo trekkers, but now it is only available through registered trekking agencies, costing NPR 2,000 per person.

If you book your trek through a trekking agency or guide, they will handle these permits for you.

3. Trail Conditions – How Easy Is It to Navigate?

The Langtang Valley trek is well-marked and follows a straightforward path from Syabrubesi to Kyanjin Gompa. The trail passes through beautiful forests, river crossings, and traditional Tamang villages. While navigation is relatively easy, there are sections prone to landslides, especially between Lama Hotel and Langtang Village.

Since the 2015 earthquake, many parts of the region have been rebuilt, but landslides and changing weather conditions still pose occasional risks. A guide can help you navigate such challenges more safely.

4. Accommodation and Food – Can You Arrange It on Your Own?

The Langtang Valley trek has plenty of teahouses along the route, offering meals and simple rooms. However, during peak seasons (spring and autumn), accommodations can fill up quickly.

If trekking with a guide, they can help book rooms in advance.

If trekking alone, you may need to arrive early at lodges to secure a spot, especially in high-altitude villages like Kyanjin Gompa.

Most teahouses offer basic meals like dal bhat (rice and lentils), noodles, soups, and Tibetan bread. Vegetarian options are widely available.

5. Safety Concerns for Solo Trekkers

Trekking alone in the Langtang Valley comes with inherent risks, including:

Altitude Sickness: The trek reaches Kyanjin Gompa (3,870m) and Tserko Ri (4,985m), so altitude-related issues can occur.

Landslides: Some parts of the trail, especially near Ghodatabela and Langtang Village, have unstable slopes.

Wildlife Encounters: The region is home to Himalayan wildlife, including yaks, monkeys, and occasionally, snow leopards.

Limited Communication: Internet and phone networks can be weak, especially beyond Lama Hotel. Carrying a satellite phone or a guide with a local SIM card can be useful.

6. Best Time to Trek Solo in Langtang

The best seasons for a solo trek are:

Spring (March-May): Clear skies, blooming rhododendrons, and stable weather.

Autumn (September-November): Best visibility, comfortable temperatures, and dry conditions.

Winter and monsoon treks are not recommended for solo trekkers due to harsh conditions and increased risks.

Conclusion – Should You Do Langtang Valley Trek Solo?

While it is technically possible to do the Langtang Valley Trek solo, the guide requirement introduced in 2023 makes it more challenging. Hiring a licensed guide not only ensures compliance with regulations but also enhances safety and enriches your overall trekking experience. If you are an experienced trekker with strong navigation skills, you may still manage to trek independently, but for most people, having a guide is the best option.

[myvisualstories]

Spring in London: St James's Park Blooms Buckingham Palace and a Peaceful Walk

Spring in London: St James's Park Blooms, Buckingham Palace and a Peaceful Walk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5emjzK-8Hcc Welcome to the first signs of spring in London. In this calming vlog, I take you through a gentle spring morning at home, followed by a peaceful walk through St. James’s Park as the city begins to bloom. Watch as the trees come alive with blossoms, the skies turn a softer blue, and the air fills with the quiet joy of a new season. We stroll past the lake, spot the first blossoms of spring, and take in the stunning view of Buckingham Palace from the park before walking up to its grand gates. The day ends with a cosy return home, time with the boys, and a golden sunset walk to close this peaceful day in the city. If you enjoy slow living, seasonal changes, and quiet moments in nature, I hope this video brings peace and inspiration. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more seasonal vlogs from London. Please visit my website to get more information: https://ift.tt/AP6eC7q 🔔Stay Ahead and Travel the World with My Visual Stories! Don’t Miss Out—Subscribe for First-Hand Visual Tours from Vibrant Cities to Scenic Hiking Trails. https://www.youtube.com/@myvisualstories1138/?sub_confirmation=1 🔗Stay Connected With Me. 👉Facebook: https://ift.tt/0kiPhQR 👉Instagram: https://ift.tt/f7nqU5F 👉Website: https://ift.tt/AP6eC7q ============================= ✅ Other Videos You Might Be Interested In Watching: 👉 Embracing Spring: A visual journey through nature's beauty https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FuYc2A0vFnE 👉 Notting Hill London- a journey through cobblestone charms... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vKUjDjjOfuM 👉 My strolls through London in spring 2024. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ml0R6aDx5Cs ============================= ✅ About My Visual Stories. My visual stories are videos and picture videos taken in various locations across the United Kingdom and other parts of the world. I have been to these places and wanted to share with the online community. I attempt to bring some easy-to-access and great places to enjoy. Some of them are from my walking trails or simply the city! 🔔 Don’t Miss Out on the Adventure! Subscribe for Captivating Videos and Photos from Unique Corners of the Travel World. Experience the Best Places to Enjoy, From Cities to Nature Trails: https://www.youtube.com/@myvisualstories1138/?sub_confirmation=1 ================================= #springinlondon #stjamespark #buckinghampalace #londonvlog #spring #slowliving #adayinmylife #springblooms #cosyvlog ⚠️Disclaimer: I do not accept any liability for any loss or damage incurred from you acting or not acting as a result of watching any of my publications. You acknowledge that you use the information I provide at your own risk. Do your research. Copyright Notice: This video and my YouTube channel contain dialogue, music, and images that are the property of My Visual Stories. You are authorised to share the video link and channel and embed this video in your website or others as long as a link back to my YouTube channel is provided. © My Visual Stories via My Visual Stories https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWmAH-SuqbaQE5Z1xcwxMGg March 24, 2025 at 03:47AM